Welcome to
Western Frontier

Western Frontier is where entrepreneurial spirit meets strategic growth. Founded by two entrepreneurs, our acquisition platform is driven by a passion for acquiring high-quality businesses and propelling them towards sustained success and value creation.

Our Approach

Tailored Exit Plans:  We understand that each business is unique, and so are your aspirations. We collaborate with you to craft a flexible exit plan tailored to your short and long-term goals. Whether you envision staying actively involved, achieving a full exit, or transitioning gradually, we work to establish a succession plan that aligns seamlessly with your vision.
Working with Management in Place:
Collaborative Leadership:  We believe in the power of your team. Our approach involves working closely with the existing employees, valuing their expertise, and leveraging their insights to drive strategic initiatives.
Professional Development Opportunities:  Your team's growth is integral to the success of the business. We invest in professional development opportunities, ensuring that skills are honed, and talents are maximized for both personal and business advancement.
Ownership, Profit-Sharing, and Incentive Programs:  We institute a broad range of long-term incentive programs that reward the dedication and hard work of employees, aligning their interests with the long-term success of the business.

Sectors of Focus

While we maintain an industry-agnostic approach, recognizing the unique characteristics of each business, we have identified several segments of particular focus to better leverage our background and expertise.

Circular Economy

Sustainable opportunities in recycling, refurbishment, and remanufacturing.

Industrial Manufacturing

From building materials to metal products, machinery, and electrical systems.

Long-Term / Niche B2B Rentals

Storage, industrial matting, billboards & other B2B rentals.

Specialized Trucking

Water, reefer, tanker, and hazmat transportation services.

Industrial & Commercial Services

Maintenance and repair, industrial cleaning, testing & inspection, safety, security, and energy management.

Wholesale Distribution

Industrial supplies, healthcare, building and construction, and electrical components.

Investment Criteria

At Western Frontier, we are committed to identifying and acquiring businesses that align with our strategic vision and commitment to sustainable growth. Our investment criteria serve as a compass, guiding our search towards opportunities that exhibit the following key characteristics:
EBITDA Range:  We target businesses with a proven track record, typically boasting EBITDA in the range of $500,000 to $5 million. This financial profile reflects a healthy balance of profitability and growth potential.
Track Record of Free Cash Flow:  A cornerstone of our investment strategy is a demonstrated track record of free cash flow. We seek businesses that not only generate revenue but also manage their finances effectively, ensuring a solid foundation for future growth.
Strong General Management:  Leadership is pivotal to success. We actively seek businesses with a strong and experienced general management team in place. Our commitment to collaboration extends to working closely with existing leadership to foster growth and drive operational excellence.
Customer Retention Beyond Personal Relationships:  We prioritize businesses with a customer base that extends beyond personal relationships. Our focus is on sustainable customer retention strategies, ensuring the business's success is not solely reliant on individual connections but is built on a foundation of product or service excellence.
Long-Term Secular Tailwinds:  Our investment strategy is forward-looking, seeking to capture long-term secular tailwinds propelling industry growth. We actively seek opportunities aligned with transformative trends, ensuring sustained market relevance and resilience to evolving dynamics.
Geographic Focus - Western Canada:  Our geographic focus centers on Western Canada. Specifically, we target opportunities in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. This regional emphasis allows us to leverage our understanding of local markets, regulations, and opportunities, fostering a more nuanced and strategic approach to acquisitions.

Our Team

Graham Osborne
General Partner
Victoria, British Columbia
Graham Osborne
General Partner

Graham Osborne is a seasoned finance professional distinguished by his expertise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital raising, and strategic advisory. Holding Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations, Graham demonstrates a profound understanding of financial and strategic concepts.

With an extensive tenure at a global investment bank, Graham honed his skills in mergers and acquisitions and capital raising advisory services. Having the opportunity to work in both Canada and the United States, he developed expert proficiency in navigating the intricate landscape of financial transactions, and consistently added value and strategic insights to each deal. Prior to this, Graham embarked on his career journey at a global energy company, focusing on project economics and providing crucial expertise in mergers and acquisitions within the energy sector.

Graham is deeply passionate about assisting small and medium-sized business owners in executing their strategies. He finds fulfillment in guiding these entrepreneurs through critical decision-making processes, offering tailored advice that seamlessly aligns with their distinct visions and objectives.

Education

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

  • Graham is a proud CFA Charterholder, demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence and the highest ethical standards in the finance industry.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

  •  Holding the Certified Management Accountant designation, Graham underscores his proficiency in strategic management, financial planning, analysis, and decision support—essential skills for driving organizational success.

Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, with Distinction | University of Calgary

  • Graham graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from the University of Calgary, solidifying his academic foundation in financial theory, analysis, and investment principles.

Professional Engagement Beyond Finance

Graham values a multifaceted approach to life that extends beyond the finance sector. As an outdoor enthusiast, he embraces activities such as golf, rock climbing, fishing, scuba diving, and snowboarding, recognizing their role in promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle, essential for sustained professional excellence.

In addition to his financial pursuits, Graham actively engages in networking, finding value in connecting with ambitious individuals across various industries. He appreciates the wealth of knowledge and differing perspectives these interactions offer, further fueling his drive for success.

Ken Osborne
General Partner
Vancouver, British Columbia
Ken Osborne
General Partner

Ken has a decade of experience in capital markets and mergers & acquisitions advisory across a broad range of industries including retail, technology, manufacturing, telecom, real estate, and healthcare. He has experience with both public and private company transactions with enterprise values ranging from $1 to $100M+. Ken is known for his broad knowledge base, extensive professional network, and practical approach to helping clients achieve their goals. Ken holds a Bachelor of Management in Finance and Economics from the University of British Columbia and is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Charterholder.

Prior to starting Osborne Partners, Ken worked at a large telecom company focused on mergers & acquisitions, and a boutique investment bank focused on equity capital raises across diversified industries.

Education

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

  • Ken holds the esteemed title of CFA Charterholder, underscoring his dedication to professional excellence and upholding the highest ethical standards in the finance industry.

Bachelor of Commerce in Finance | University of British Columbia

  • Ken completed his Bachelor of Commerce in Finance at the University of British Columbia, solidifying his academic foundation in financial theory, analysis, and investment principles.

Professional Engagement Beyond Finance

Ken embraces an active lifestyle and is often found on the golf course or enjoying a day of fishing. These pursuits not only bring him joy but also contribute to a balanced and energized approach to his work.

Ken is an avid reader and a dedicated lifelong learner. He believes in the power of continuous learning, constantly delving into books to broaden his horizons and deepen his knowledge.

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Professional Network

Our ventures are supported by our dynamic and extensive professional network, fueling our financial capabilities, and enriching our decision-making process.